The Best SUVs for Pulling a Trailer: Finding the Perfect Balance for Adventure
Choosing the right SUV for towing your travel trailer can be as exhilarating as planning the journey itself.
While trucks often steal the spotlight in towing discussions, SUVs have proven to be surprisingly adept trail companions. They blend the power needed for towing with comfort, ample seating, and versatile cargo space, creating a harmonious vehicle that can accommodate both your adventure gear and your loved ones.
For families and groups seeking a refined yet capable ride, today’s SUVs offer a world of possibilities—allowing you to tow your “home away from home” while maintaining the comfort of an enclosed, family-friendly cabin.
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a cross-country expedition, a capable SUV can make all the difference. It combines versatility, comfort, and towing power into one vehicle.
Picture yourself driving through scenic mountain passes or winding lakeside roads, knowing that your SUV isn’t just up to the task but excels at it. The balance of utility and comfort, strength and style, makes these vehicles ideal for both the journey and the destination.
5 Key Factors When Selecting an SUV for Towing Travel Trailers
Towing Capacity
The first essential specification to review is towing capacity. This refers to the maximum weight the SUV can safely tow, and it’s crucial for ensuring your trailer is hauled securely. As you plan your trip, remember that the trailer’s weight includes the trailer itself and all the gear, supplies, and extras you’ll be packing. Look for an SUV whose towing capacity comfortably exceeds the weight of your fully loaded trailer so you’re prepared for every twist and turn.
Payload Capacity
Beyond the trailer, consider what you’ll carry inside the SUV itself. Payload capacity refers to the total weight your SUV can support, including passengers, cargo, and any rooftop storage. Everything inside the SUV contributes to its payload, from luggage and camping equipment to pets and passengers. Choosing a vehicle with a generous payload capacity ensures you can bring along everything you need without overloading your vehicle.
Tongue Weight and Hitch Specifications
Equally important is understanding tongue weight, the pressure your trailer exerts on the SUV’s hitch. Ideally, tongue weight should be about 10% of the trailer’s total weight to maintain stability during transit. For instance, if you’re towing a 7,000-pound trailer, the tongue weight should be around 700 pounds. Ensuring your SUV’s hitch can handle this weight distribution keeps your ride smooth and secure, especially on longer trips.
Suspension and Stability Features
When towing, stability becomes a top priority. Many SUVs come equipped with enhanced suspension systems and stability controls to help manage the additional weight of a trailer. These features contribute to smoother handling, reduced sway, and overall safety. Seek out SUVs with advanced towing packages or suspension systems if you’re planning frequent or long-distance towing.
Brake and Transmission Support
Towing places extra strain on an SUV’s brakes and transmission. SUVs with robust braking systems and cooling mechanisms for the transmission are better suited for towing, as they handle the demands of steep grades and longer hauls without overheating. Additionally, some SUVs offer integrated trailer brake controls, providing synchronized braking between the SUV and the trailer for added safety on downhill stretches.
With these factors in mind, choosing the right SUV becomes a thoughtful process that prioritizes safety, comfort, and ease. A well-equipped SUV won’t just pull a trailer—it will elevate every aspect of your travel experience, ensuring that both the journey and the destination are as enjoyable as possible.
Top Picks for Hauling Heavy Travel Trailers
Superior Choices for Towing Large Campers
When you’ve got a hefty travel trailer to haul, certain SUVs rise to the challenge with ease. Based on truck foundations, these vehicles boast the muscle and durability needed for the heaviest campers.
Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon
- Max Towing Capacity: 7,900 lbs
- Payload: Up to 1,927 lbs
- Price Range: $49,700–$90,000+
Built like tanks, the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon siblings are heavy-duty wonders, mirroring the solid Chevy Silverado structure. Their robust build isn’t just for show; they deliver when you need to tow a sizable travel trailer without breaking a sweat.
Ford Expedition
- Max Towing Capacity: 9,300 lbs
- Payload: 1,757 lbs
- Price Range: $50,000–$80,000
Sharing its roots with the Ford F-150, the Ford Expedition is not just another pretty face. It’s your go-to when it comes to moving very heavy trailers. Plus, it’ll comfortably seat a crowd and carry all their gear.
Nissan Armada
- Max Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs
- Payload: Up to 1,723 lbs
- Price Range: $48,900–$72,300
Nissan Armada may sound like it’s preparing for battle, and well, it is—on the towing front at least. Given its shared DNA with the Nissan Titan, this SUV is more than just eye candy, providing plenty of bang for your buck.
Dodge Durango
- Max Towing Capacity: 8,700 lbs
- Payload: Up to 1,924 lbs
- Price Range: $32,962–$81,390
The Dodge Durango has stormed back onto the scene, flexing its towing muscles. It’s not all brawn, though; this family-friendly powerhouse is also packed with tech and comfort, offering a ride that’s as smooth as it is strong.
Find Travel Trailers for Rent
Top Choices for Medium-Size Travel Trailer Towing
Curious about which SUVs can handle your mid-weight travel trailer for that epic road trip you’re planning? Look no further. Here are some that match strength with style:
Toyota 4Runner
Rough terrains? No stress with the 4Runner. Its design marries the toughness of a truck with the comfort of an SUV, making it a reliable companion for your adventures.
- Towing Cap: 5,000 lbs
- Cargo Carry: 1,495-1,700 lbs
- Budget: $39,180-$55,150
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Luxury meets power in the Grand Cherokee. A favorite for towing due to its impressive capacity, ensuring your medium-sized trailer is just a smooth pull away.
- Towing Might: 7,200 lbs
- Gear Hold: 1,266-1,812 lbs
- Price Slice: $39,180-$55,150
Chevrolet Blazer
The Blazer isn’t just a treat for the eyes; it’s also a towing talent, redefining comfort when bringing along that needed extra load.
- Towing Capacity: 4,500 lbs
- Weight Endure: 1,706-2,094 lbs
- Cost Range: $33,400-$52,150
Preferred SUVs for Light Travel Trailer Towing
A lighter travel trailer shouldn’t mean a compromise on quality. These SUVs stand out for towing your lightweight chariot, wherever you wander:
Jeep Wrangler
The Wrangler takes the trophy for versatility with its rugged build, perfect for those smaller, cozier trailers you love for quick getaways.
- Towing Limit: 3,500 lbs
- Load Manage: 1,052-1,351 lbs
- Price Span: $28,475-$42,375
Volkswagen Atlas
Spacious and smart, the Atlas ensures you can bring along your camper and keep the whole family comfortable and entertained.
- Towing Prowess: 5,000 lbs
- Equipment Bear: 1,080 lbs
- Money Matters: $33,475-$57,645
Honda Pilot
The Pilot is your trusty steed for family adventures, blending space, comfort, and a towing capability that won’t let you down.
- Tow-O-Meter: 5,000 lbs
- Payload Hold: 1,418-1,614 lbs
- Wallet Wave: $36,830-$53,040
Remember, a proper hitch and vehicle configuration are key to safe and efficient towing, so always check your SUV’s manual or with a professional before you hit the road. Now, you’re all set to choose your towing partner—get ready to hit the open road with your home away from home in tow!
Ready to go SUV shopping?
Ready to find the best SUVs for towing travel trailers? Whether you’re setting off on a family road trip or planning a weekend escape, the right SUV can make all the difference. Choose an SUV that fits your family, gear, and adventure style from spacious interiors to dependable towing capacity. Considering renting a trailer first?
Explore options on platforms like Outdoorsy to pair with your SUV, or list your own trailer for added income. With the best SUVs for towing trailers, your next journey awaits—time to hit the open road!
Frequently Asked Questions
Compact SUVs with Around 5,000 lbs Towing Capacity
Looking for a compact powerhouse? A few compact SUV options could be perfect companions for towing your gear without the bulk. Typically, they boast a towing capacity in the 5,000 lbs range:
- Chevrolet Equinox: Don’t let its size fool you; with the right engine, it can handle your towing needs.
- Ford Escape: Ideal for weekend escapades, equipped with a tow package for that extra grunt.
Remember, always check the specific model year and engine for precise towing limits!
Leaders in Midsize SUV Towing Prowess
When you’re eyeing midsize SUVs, a couple of names are likely to pop up due to their towing champ status:
- Dodge Durango: With a heavy-duty towing kit, it’s a beast at the campground with capacity reaching up to 8,700 lbs.
- Land Rover Discovery: It combines luxury with utility, offering a robust towing capability of up to 8,200 lbs.
Diesel SUV Towing Features for Travel Trailers
Considering a diesel SUV for that extra towing torque? Here’s what to eye for:
- Engine Power: Torque is your best friend, with high torque figures low in the rpm range.
- Towing Package: Enhanced radiator, transmission cooler, and brake upgrades are key.
- Stability Features: Look for electronic stability control to keep that trailer in check.
Trailblazing 2023 SUVs with Top-Notch Towing Features
Just rolled into 2024 and craving the latest SUVs with superior tow tech?
- Jeep Wagoneer: Topping the charts with a 10,000 lbs towing capacity, it’s a force to be reckoned with.
Recommended Toyota SUV for Towing Travel Trailers
Toyota fan? For a reliable towing experience:
- Toyota Highlander: With an impressive 5,000 lbs towing capacity when properly equipped, it’s ready to lug your trailer.
Gauging Your SUV’s Towing Capacity for Trailers
Wondering if your SUV is up to the task? Here’s how to tell:
- Owner’s Manual: Your go-to source for the exact numbers.
- Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Ensure the total weight of your trailer and SUV doesn’t surpass this.
- Towing Package: Some models need this for the full advertised capacity.
Remember, safety is key, so always confirm with your vehicle’s manufacturer.
